What does the phrasal verb “clamp down on” mean?

What are the definitions of “clamp down on”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Restrict or try to stop something.

  The government are CLAMPING DOWN ON antisocial behaviour.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “clamp down on”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb clamp down on is to restrict or try to stop something, usually by enforcing stricter rules or regulations. It is often used when talking about governments or authorities taking action against unwanted activities or behaviors.

What are the different verb forms of “clamp down on”?

Root Verb	clamp down on
Third Person Singular Present	clamps down on
Present Participle	clamping down on
Simple Past	clamped down on
Past Participle	clamped down on

Example

The school decided to clamp down on bullying.

Example

The government clamps down on illegal activities.

Example

The police are clamping down on speeding in the area.

Example

The authorities clamped down on the protest.

Example

The company had clamped down on unauthorized use of its software.

What kind of phrasal verb is “clamp down on”?

📝

Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Transitive verb

“clamp down on” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

The government clamped down on tax evasion.

Example

The school clamped down on cheating during exams.

📝

Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“clamp down on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

The government clamped down on tax evasion.

Example

The school clamped down on cheating during exams.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “clamp down on”?

Clamp down on crime

To take strict measures to prevent or reduce criminal activities.

Example

The city is clamping down on crime by increasing police presence.

Clamp down on spending

To control or reduce spending, often in response to financial difficulties.

Example

The company is clamping down on spending to save money.

Clamp down on pollution

To enforce stricter regulations to reduce pollution and protect the environment.

Example

The government is clamping down on pollution by implementing new environmental policies.

Good things to know

Does “clamp down on” have an informal or formal tone?

Clamp down on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in news articles, reports, and everyday conversations to discuss actions taken by authorities or organizations to control or stop unwanted activities.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “clamp down on”?

Synonyms

• restrict
• control
• curb
• enforce
• crack down on
• suppress
• put a stop to
• tighten up on

Antonyms

• allow
• permit
• encourage
• support
• promote
• facilitate
• foster